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A couple weeks ago, a rather bitter article entitled “5 Reasons I Hated Living in Allston” appeared in this space. Sure, some (OK, most...fine, all) of Matt's points are true, but there are plenty of things to love about Allston, too. It's a cultural hotspot filled with some of the most interesting people you will ever meet ("The People" in Matt's story; it's all a matter of perspective), and I can think of plenty of reasons to live there.

Allston's certainly not everyone’s cup of tea, but if you love the area and want to keep it…well, you know, join me in celebrating its finer points.

Amazing Asian Food. From Color's Korean food to authentic sushi at Fish Market, there's no shortage of tasty Asian restaurants in Allston. The variety of options in different price ranges is unlike any other neighborhood in Boston. Friends with whom I've discussed Allston’s Asian cuisine selections say it feels like they’re eating a home-cooked meal.

No Transportation Worries on a Late Night. With so many bars and live concert venues just across the street or down the block, Allston residents don't have to deal with taking the crowded T, catching the bus, or shelling out money for a cab home. Whether you want to meet up with old college friends at Tavern in the Square or grab a quick drink at Deep Ellum, you can always stumble home at 1:00 a.m. (or later) with no problem.

Cool Concert Venues. Allston has three of the greatest concert venues in the Boston area: Great Scott, O’Brien’s, and Brighton Music Hall. These intimate rooms book some of the best up-and-coming artists in the indie, alt-rock, and underground hip-hop scenes. If you're not sure what's going on, local music blog Allston Pudding always has details on their upcoming concerts page.

The Basement Show Scene. Allston earned its “Allston Rock City” nickname for being home to a great legacy of alternative and underground music. Those roots are still alive today in the form of basement shows: Local bands and friends help coordinate these gigs and keep the spirit of Allston music alive and well. And the best part is that you never know what can happen at one of these shows -- you could discover your new favorite local band, dance the night away, or have a close call with the police. The Boston Counter Cultural Compass 'zine is a great guide to the underground of Allston and beyond.

Top-Notch Thrift Stores. Allston has a great selection of local and chain secondhand shops where you can find that perfect piece to enhance your “hobo-chic” look, including Urban Renewals, Goodwill, Buffalo Exchange, and Store 54. And because the area is lesser-known for its thrift stores than Somerville and Cambridge, you can always get a great find at an affordable price. I personally am a fan of Buffalo Exchange's shoe collection.

So celebrate your youth and drink some PBR with your friends in Allston. Some of the best years of your life could be spent in this wonderful Boston neighborhood -- as long as you give it a chance.

About Christine -- I'm a music blogger with passions for photography and movies. You can usually find me at Paradise Rock Club or The Avenue. My goal in life is to become Lindsay Lohan's best friend. Twitter: @certaintragedy